Acidic fog-induced changes in host-plant suitability : Interactions ofTrichoplusia ni andPhaseolus lunatus.

摘要: Phaseolus lunatus L. (Henderson Bush lima beans) were exposed to 2 hr acidic fogs with 2.5∶1.0 (v/v) nitrogen-sulfur ratio typical of the west coast United States. Fogs pH values 2.0 (P 0.05,t test). Water content (%) foliage was not changed significantly > test) by exposure any fogs.Trichoplusia ni (Hubner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) larvae ate more and gained weight on plants treated 3.0 < 0.01,t Several potential explanations are offered for lack significant gain in which soluble protein levels, free amino acid concentrations, or percent total nitrogen contents enhanced a 2.5 2.0. No larval feeding preference detected versus control fogs, no differences survival ofT. eggs fogs. Some implications population dynamics discussed.